Matea Mahal Smith has secured her place as an automatic Top Ten finalist in the 2026 Miss Jamaica World beauty pageant, having won the Miss Jamaica World Fast Track Fitness Challenge on Sunday.

Held at Emancipation Park in New Kingston, the Miss Jamaica World Fast Track Fitness Challenge featured all 23 contestants participating in various challenges comprising push-ups, sit-ups, squats, mountain climb, jumping jacks and sprints.

The fitness challenge was guided by fitness coach Travane Morrison.

Seanakaye Wright was named first runner-up and Realla Benguche took the second runner-up position.

(From left) Realla Benguche second runner-up Miss Jamaica World Fast Track Fitness challenge, Matea Mahal Smith (1st place) and Seanakaye Wright (first runner-up).

In a post competition interview with Observer Online on Sunday, Matea spoke about participating in the Fitness challenge.

“It was really challenging but a lot of fun. I definitely didn’t expect any of the rounds, but I’m really happy. I did it with the girls and they were cheering me on the entire way,” said Matea.

Asked how she prepared, Matea said: “I usually have a workout routine. I’m a runner and I like to work out. But yesterday (Saturday), I came here and did a light walk just to warm up my muscles and I did some stretching to prepare for today.”

She shared that her win signified the dedication that she maintains in working out and maintaining a healthy regime.

“I think it signifies the discipline that I have in terms of how I cater to my work out but also I keep my body healthy and I thought how am I gonna go through this competition and be disciplined and give my all,” she reasoned.

Matea, who finished in the top 5 in last year’s Miss Universe Jamaica pageant, said she decided to enter the Miss Jamaica World pageant to continue to shed light on her advocacy.

“I think it gives me an opportunity to build on what I have in terms of advocacy, it also allows me to work on it with my Love Always, Matea initiative. Working with Sophie’s Place where I advocate for children with disabilities and their caregivers. I credit the Miss Jamaica World Organisation for giving us so much support and helping to guide us through it all,” she said.

The coronation of Miss Jamaica World 2026 is scheduled for November 1 at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium, Jamaica College.